The outer islands are destined to be a vital part of the future for the tourism industry in Seychelles, contributing to the economic well-being of the whole country. Yet they are fragile and could also be destroyed by a relatively small number of people if they are not respected.
There have been a number of negative changes due to the attention of a relatively small band of poachers. On African Banks for example poaching has reduced the number of nesting Sooty Terns to less than a quarter of what it used to be in the 1950s, while the future of the Roseate Tern, Crested Tern and Black-naped Tern hangs in the balance. Turtles are slaughtered despite receiving official protection, because of an absence of enforcement. Likewise on Cosmoledo, Astove, Etoile, Boudeuse and elsewhere visitors from boats act with impunity on these uninhabited islands. The assets of the outer islands are plundered for short term gain.
The alternative to short-term exploitation for the benefit of a few is conservation management and limited ecotourism, with its long-term benefits for the whole of Seychelles. In a world where unspoilt beauty is an increasing rarity, the outer islands are priceless. They are among the last islands on earth where untamed nature rules supreme.
ICS sees the conservation, protection and rehabilitation of the outer islands as a vital priority for Seychelles and the rest of the world.